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Cross Country Skiing/Snowshoeing - Harriman State Park 1/16/26


Itinerary:

Drive

Have Lunch on your own before we meet up (we love to go to Smitty's in Idaho Falls - German Pancakes are incredible! Closes between 3-7pm - walking distance to the Idaho Falls)

1:00 PM Meet at Snowshoe Trailhead at Harriman State Park

4:00 PM Back at Trailhead


Optional Excursions in West Yellowstone


Directions:

Mt Mamas Cafe, West Yellowstone


Activities:

Harriman State Park - Bathrooms at the trailhead. Spotty cell service. Can choose to Snowshoe or Cross Country Ski, trails are great for both). Entrance fee $7/per vehicle and no charge for track use fee since it won't be groomed Friday. Pay at the visitor’s center. Rent from Visitor’s Center if needed.  Free hot chocolate at the “ Boy’s House” Warming cabin. Many loops to wander around in XC ski or snowshoes. Be sure to stop and talk to the volunteer ski patrol and rangers, they have so much info about the area.  Massive barn in north side of village makes for good photo ops.  Idaho flag with lake & Teton NP in background another fine spot for photos.


Snowshoeing -

Ranch Loop - Easy flat trail. Packed down. Trail starts at the main parkinglot near the cabins and heads west to the lake and along the lake shore. Head rt at the bridge and back to the cabins. (Dark purple loop on map below). 2.6 mi. 1 hour  AllTrails


River Trail - Easy trail along the river. Trailhead starts northeast at main parkinglot near the cabins and heads to the river and south along it. NOT recommended for cross country skiing as it has alot of ups and downs.


Cross Country Skiing -

Big Bend Loop - Easy trail loop along the river past a bridge. Trail starts north of the cabins along the river. For beginners, heading to the bridge and back was a great distance. For those who want more of a challenge, do the whole loop and end back at the big barn and cabins. See map


Golden Lake Loop - Moderate to advanced. Had alot of hills and not recommended for beginners.


Tips - Make sure all trips end at the Boy's House for free hot cocoa, flushing toilets and a fake but warm fire. They also have simple crafts for the kids. Closes around 4-5 pm.


Gear - Snowshoes or Cross Country Skis, (NO COTTON) thermal top and bottom (synthetic yoga pants), wool socks or just not cotton socks, snow pants (if it will be snowing, otherwise they get too hot), long sleeve fleece, light waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camelback or regular back pack (with space remaining to shove clothes in when you get too warm), 1-2 Liter water bottle, 3-4 snacks +road trip snacks and such, toiletries, casual clothing, swimsuit, yoga mat, PJ's, relaxing clothing, $ for lunches and dinners.


Rentals - Harriman State Park $20 Cross Country Skis. $10 Snowshoes


Harriman State Park Map


Ranch Loop (dark purple loop)



Big Bend Cross Country Loop


Boy's House


Rentals


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